Jamaican right back Alvas Powell joins Cincinnati via trade from Portland

Alvas Powell - Portland Timbers - close up - MLS Cup 2018

TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Trade


FC Cincinnati added another piece to their increasingly formidable backline on Thursday afternoon, striking a deal with the Portland Timbers to acquire Jamaican international Alvas Powell. The Timbers received $250,000 in General Allocation Money for Powell, as well as a percentage of any future transfer fee if the player is transferred outside MLS.


The 24-year-old right back was an integral player in Portland, making at least 23 appearances each of the last four seasons. Powell started and won the 2015 MLS Cup final with the Timbers, and he came on as a second-half substitute against Atlanta United in this year's MLS Cup.


Powell becomes the second fullback FCC have brought in that appeared in this year's MLS Cup, following in the footsteps of left back Greg Garza's move from Atlanta United to the Queen City. As a US permanent resident, Powell will occupy a domestic roster spot on Cincinnati’s 2019 roster.


Add in two-time MLS Best XI center back Kendall Waston –  also coming via trade, from the Vancouver Whitecaps – and Cincy look poised to field a talented group of defenders for their inaugural MLS campaign.